People across the world have watched on in horror as tens of thousands of innocent civilians have been killed in Israel’s genocide against the Palestinians. With the worst-case scenario of famine playing out across Gaza, and safe spaces and access to humanitarian aid for the people of Gaza becoming virtually non-existent, it is important, now more than ever, to do our part to support the civilian population in Gaza. Here are some actions you can take to play your part.
BOYCOTT
Boycotts are a legitimate and peaceful method for tackling rogue apartheid states. Boycotting on an individual level involves withdrawing support for Israeli goods and for Israeli international companies which are engaged in violations of Palestinian human rights.
While it may sound difficult, technology has made boycotting rogue states easier than ever. The ‘No Thanks’ mobile phone app can tell you which brands or products are complicit in Israeli ethnic cleansing.
You can download the app on the Google Play Store and Apple Store.
DIVESTMENT
Divestment campaigns urge banks, investment funds, and public institutions to withdraw their investments from the State of Israel and all Israeli and international companies that sustain Israeli apartheid.
You can take part in divestment by ensuring that none of your stocks or savings support Israel or manufacturing arms, or by writing to local institutions to encourage them to divest their funds and investments from Israeli companies to support the people of Palestine.
SANCTION
Sanction campaigns pressure governments and other public bodies to end Israeli apartheid by ending business with illegal Israeli settlements, ending military support for Israel, and halting trade agreements, as well as withdrawing Israel’s ability to participate in international institutions and competitions, such as FIFA.
The UK Government cannot claim to support peace while training Israeli forces on British soil, investing in Israeli companies and products, and providing weapons for their genocide. Our actions speak louder than our words, and these choices firmly tie the UK directly to the destruction of Gaza. The British Government must:
- Immediately suspend all UK arms sales to Israel, including components used in F-35 fighter jets deployed in Gaza.
- Ensure experienced aid organisations have full access across Gaza to deliver humanitarian aid without military interference.
- Impose widespread sanctions on companies and individuals who encourage Israel’s horrific campaign of ethnic cleansing both in Gaza and in the West Bank.
- Commit to brokering an immediate and long-lasting ceasefire.
The UNA-UK have created a page with tips and a template to help you write to your local MP in Westminster.
You can also sign various petitions which call for the UK government to push for a permanent ceasefire, unrestricted humanitarian access, and a path to accountability, justice and lasting peace.
GET INVOLVED
There are numerous local and national organisations campaigning for justice for Palestine, such as the Ayrshire Palestine Forum and the Scottish Palestine Solidarity Campaign, which regularly organise demonstrations, hold stalls to raise funds for Palestinians, and create events to raise awareness about Palestine.
You can also join Oxfam’s Red Line for Gaza campaign, which provides ways you can support their campaigns and take action in your community.
DONATE
If you are in a fortunate enough position to be able to donate, countless worthy charities assist the people of Palestine. While their list is not exhaustive, Islamic Relief have provided a list of ways that donations can help people in Palestine and those fleeing the horrific scenes unfolding across Gaza and the West Bank.
Due to the ongoing siege around Gaza, delivering humanitarian aid to the people of Gaza has been difficult. Some organisations which continue to work in Gaza are the Palestine Red Crescent Society (PRCS), the UN World Food Programme, and the World Health Organization.
As a result of Israeli restrictions on humanitarian aid, these organisations continue to operate at a diminished rate. However, they continue to operate to some extent within Gaza, distributing emergency relief—including food, hygiene kits, blankets, and tents.
Ruth Maguire MSP (SNP) 